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The greatest catastrophe which can befall a politician is not getting elected or maintaining the office to which he holds or aspires. And the greatest catastrophe that can befall a political party, other than a severe imbalance in fundraising, is for its individual members to become professional, perpetual politicians who are afraid to do anything which might impact their candidacy in the next election cycle. Thus is born a cadre of gutless wonders who speak loudly and we all know where they keep their big stick.

You don’t win the hearts and minds of your constituents by abandoning your principles …

There is no doubt in my mind that the Republican Party’s Rockefeller wing has abandoned the conservative principles of Ronald Reagan. And that they listened to some political consultant who advised them that the American people were tired of strident rhetoric, continual strife and that the Republican Party needed to moderate its stance to attract those in the middle and those voters who were already sliced and diced by democrats into identifiable constituencies by race, ethnicity, class and citizenship. In essence, become the lite version of liberal democrats.

End result: disaster!

We all saw how that worked out. We got a Presidential Candidate who, when not openly disagreeing with his own party, was bed-hopping into the democrat camp in a display of bi-partisanship. Bi-partisanship which cost us the election and gave us some of the worst legislation ever to be crafted.

Mc-Cain Feingold opened up campaign finances to a Pandora’s box of evil outsiders, some of whom were foreign and precluded from financing an American election.

McCain-Kennedy immigration reform which was little more than amnesty for the illegal aliens who were already destroying our healthcare, education, judicial, retirement, social and cultural infrastructure.

McCain-Lieberman which attempted to institutionalize the myth of global warming and which would have led to a severe disruption in our economy and military affairs. Like man is responsible for the global weather and can change it by empowering the Wall Street Wizards to create and trade carbon credits.

And even though he was denied the Presidency, McCain and his democrat pal Joseph Lieberman and his RINO (Republican In Name Only) Lindsey Graham continue to provide aid and comfort to the democrat party.

The Republican Leadership is upset …

Now we find that the Republican Leaders are turning on conservative radio talk show hosts who are criticizing their leadership, or lack thereof, and pointing out the obvious: there are fewer Republicans in office due to their failed election strategies. They talk tough about how talk radio is only confusing the base and helping to erode their efforts to re-constitute the party’s brand. In essence, the continue to support the democrat position that conservative talk radio must be silenced, perhaps by a return of the so-called “Fairness Doctrine” under the guise of establishing a new concern for “localism.” Eschewing the nationally syndicated powerhouse talkers in favor of local talkers who are unable to command such a major audience as to influence party politics.

The cowards whine …

While these politicians whine that talk radio show hosts are making their leadership roles difficult, the truth is they are afraid. Afraid that attacking a sitting President with high approval numbers will alienate them from their constituency which will ultimately affect their candidacy in the next election cycle.

Too bad they don’t have the smarts to understand that you are not attacking the President or even the democrat party – you are describing the principles for which you stand and the positions you are willing to support in the face of fierce opposition.

It is not so much the need to attack the democrats as it is to put forth a fair, honest and ethical platform and invite all those in agreement to help you achieve your political goals. The trick is to pick issues that resonate with the people and point out that those who simply offer more and more entitlements in return for political support are bankrupting the nation.

In addition, it is time to put aside the “old club” rules which forbid attacks on fellow politicians. It is time to point our hypocrisy and corruption wherever it is found. It is time to say no to the special interests who tell the politicians that they can’t win without their tainted money and votes.

It is time for the people to take back their government …

It is time that we told the politicians, face-to-face, that they will be thrown out of office if they continue to engage in political maneuvers which hurt their constituents and support the special interests. That the people would rather see an ethical politician from the other party rather than a hypocritical and corrupt one from their own party in office.

Rush, Hannity, Levin …

The conservative talk show hosts are merely facilitators of the conversation. They are mirrors which reflect back their audience’s opinions on a variety of subjects, some important and some not so important. The hosts help to clarify the subjects being discussed.

And the reason they are hated by the opposition is because they give rise to a national discussion of the issues. Callers who disagree with the host’s position are often given quicker access to the host than those who agree. For it is only when the host challenges those who disagree with the host’s position, does the entire story unfold on the national stage. Silliness and stupidity are exposed and the American people can develop an informed opinion. No doubt why politicians in both political parties want to mitigate the power of talk radio.

These hosts are made more powerful by the mainstream media which either deliberately shades the truth in order to mix unacknowledged political commentary into their reporting or try to fit complex subjects into 3-minute segments. There is no doubt that the mainstream media skews left in favor of liberal democrats. And there is no doubt that they compromised their journalistic ethics to support an unknown candidate; one who has not been fully vetted to this day.

Suspicions of a stalking horse …

Some are beginning to believe that Obama and his fellow Clintonistas were the best thing to happen. It provides the Republican party with a plausible reason for the continued failure of democrat policies and takes the sting out of a Republican Administration which abandoned conservative principles – leading to domestic economic chaos and somewhat a failure of foreign affairs. Yes, they did keep the nation safe after 9/11 – but in the minds of many Americans, it was the way they went about it that rankled. How stupid must you be to consider waterboarding torture after watching Daniel Pearl or Nick Berg beheaded on video by the terrorists?

Never forget …

Who cares what the cheese-eating surrender monkeys in France think about America? Who cares what nations, who owe their existence and economies to America, thinks about our politics. Only those who do not wish us well, the democrats and their media friends. And unfortunately, they were able to parlay a confluence of stage-managed events into an election winning coalition. But, as we can easily anticipate, they will return to their ethical roots and be quickly mired in a cesspool of waste, fraud and corruption.

For those requiring an object lesson, see if you can view the following two videos – and then condemn America for its actions.

The first strike …

The second strike …

I purposely did not include the footage of the terrorist beheading of journalist Daniel Perl or communications worker Nicholas Berg.

Torture and atrocities which kill and maim their own citizens are commonplace in Islamic Countries. And while there are those who condemn those in the United States for betraying our national principles and engaging in torture – this is a media-driven story put forth by those who hate America. These are the people who are siding with an enemy who would rather kill every man, woman and child that has not sworn allegiance to the Islam faith and the mullahs who administer it.

These are the people who really want to shut down talk radio …

Before you condemn talk radio and claim that it is doing a disservice to America, consider exactly who is left to speak the truth to the American people and those who lead this great nation.

What can YOU do?

Realize that the truth is often repugnant to those politicians who are complicit in wrongdoing. People like Nancy Pelosi, Harry Reid and the ilk want only their spin-doctored and tested viewpoint to be carried to the American people. So it is in our best interests to demand that our elected officials keep their hands off the media, especially talk radio.

The mainstream media, typified by NBC, is in the tank for Obama and the far left liberal democrats. Whether for the purposes of securing a corporate advantage, funding or simply following their leaderships liberal left viewpoint, the journalistic ethics of the mainstream media have been severely compromised and one can hardly regard the failing New York Times as the newspaper of national record.

Be careful when listening to politicians. They will lie, cheat, steal and say or do anything to obtain and remain in office.

Be safe, be well – and vote for YOUR interests and those of AMERICA first. You can no longer trust your political party or their leadership.

-- steve

Quote of the Day: “Freedom of Speech means listening to those things you abhor in order to develop your own viewpoint of events which others see differently.” -- steve

A reminder from OneCitizenSpeaking.com: a large improvement can result from a small change…

The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane. -- Marcus Aurelius

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"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

January 2o, 2009 was a monumental day which should be officially memorialized …

When one considers the last minute deals and the character of the incoming Administration, it appears that the public trust and faith in our government has died.

We have entered the realm of political celebrity, where good intentions and a well-crafted speech serve as a measure of accomplishment – even though little or nothing may have been accomplished.

Where the special interests reign supreme and those who contributed mightily to the campaign are now expecting their rewards.

Where the media is afraid to jeopardize its corporate interests by telling truth to power and is complicit in sycophantically covering up the stone cold truth.

Where the word “crisis” is used to suspend the normal rules and conventions of the government, to allow egregious acts of self-interest and public deception to take place on the national stage; often without a fight or words of dissent.

While observing the pageantry and solemnity surrounding the inauguration, I became even more convinced that Barack Obama was, up until now, an empty slate upon which the voters projected their own wants, needs and desires.

Truly a symbol of hope and change … if one looked only at the rhetoric and ignored the actions of the politicians and their political parties.

It is almost inconceivable that slightly more than half of those who took the time and trouble to vote ignored the environment of corruption and special dealing which surrounded Barack Obama. And, most importantly, ignored the fact that Obama was, at best, a dupe or an opportunist when he associated with those who were corrupt, harbored anti-American sentiments or were judged to be unrepentant domestic terrorists.

That a good portion of Barack Obama’s personal history has remained hidden from public scrutiny and shrouded in mystery. And the portion of what has been revealed surrounded with contradiction and controversy.

That his party, the democrats, by means fair and foul, have managed to corrupt the election process by their suspicious voter registration drives and election practices which, in some cases, count more votes than citizens voting.

That his staunchest supporters rely on the precepts of moral equivalency to justify their actions; to claim that President Bush and his Administration led the way in corrupt, special interest dealings. All under the guise of inoculating themselves from future blame by claiming the roots of any corruption and/or crisis should be attributable to the Bush regime.

So I ask again, “what can you believe in?”

And there is but one answer: YOURSELF!

It is time to take defensive measures …

It is time to take defensive measures and insulate yourself from the physical, emotional and spiritual consequences of a government which has proven to be increasingly out of control.

A government where Orwellian definitions indicating black is white, up is down and good is evil abound. Where lawyers parse sentences to find favorable meaning where there is none. Where profligate spending on special interest projects which never work or are canceled before the acid test of everyday usage abound.

Where people are encouraged to sacrifice for the common good, even though that good benefits only the special interests.

It is time to take matters into your own hands. To manage your own health and physical well being, to isolate yourself from those who are crazy-makers and demanding that you blindly follow their latest schemes, to educate yourself when education is being dumbed down and perverted by social activists, to protect your own employment future when CEOs simply shed employees to improve their bonuses and to manage your finances in an age when the government wants you to spend yourself further into debt claiming it is your patriotic duty to help spend our way to a strong economy.

We can no longer trust those institutions which have failed America. Education which is more about union control and supporting minorities than it is about providing a sound basis for adult maturity. Finance, where those who you trusted to prudently manage your finances, gambled on speculative derivatives to earn outrageous bonuses in the tens, and sometimes, hundreds of millions of dollars.

And unfortunately, this same toxic environment extends to local and state governments. Where personal self-interest pervades party politics and those who do not wish America well are busy enabling our enemies, both foreign and domestic, to take over our cities, states and federal government without a single shot being fired. Using the tools of political correctness, multiculturalism and diversity to further divide and conquer our legal citizens.

There is much that is right with America and there is every chance that this recession will turn the corner soon. But we need to take action now. To position ourselves to benefit from bad times as well as good times. To become strong enough to lend support to our families and our communities.

Beginning YOUR journey …

Today, the day after the inauguration, should be a solemn day. A day in which you begin your journey into the future. Putting aside all of the past angst and confusion over politics and moving forward with your own programs that benefit you. In essence, your inauguration into the world of YOU!

To this end, I am going to dedicate a portion of my time to building a web site that will be dedicated to self-protection and the encouragement of personal achievement.

Join me in becoming personally proactive …

If you should wish to join me on the journey, you can sign up for my free report on job loss related panic at www.aminext.com or by clicking on the site logo below.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you once again for reading my OneCitizenSpeaking blog and encourage you to sign-up for the future benefits yet to come.

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

Perhaps it is just me? That there is some flaw in my character which encourages me to see some inkling of unpleasant truths to come; while those about me applaud and cheer the arrival of a new President. Perhaps it is because I have closely followed his campaign rhetoric and compared our President’s talking points with his actions, or in some cases, lack of action.

I will freely admit that our government, starting with the Carter years and moving through the Bush 43 years, has left much to be desired. In terms of the rise in self-interest governmental corruption. Of purchasing photo-ops with foreign dictators who issue worthless proclamations in return for cold, hard American cash, commodities and technology.

Therefore, it is with some trepidation that I read President Obama’s inaugural address; starting from the part that is of interest to me.

“My fellow citizens:”

I am inheriting a mess …

“That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood.

"Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred."

"Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age."

"Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered."

"Our health care is too costly; our schools fail too many; and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.”

“These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics.”

These are the facts and they are undeniable.

And many in America are discouraged and despondent …

“Less measurable but no less profound is a sapping of confidence across our land a nagging fear that America's decline is inevitable, and that the next generation must lower its sights.”

“Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real.”

“They are serious and they are many.”

“They will not be met easily or in a short span of time.”

Again, these are the facts and they are undeniable.

Promise and the hope born of change …

“But know this, America they will be met.”

You have elected me and I will assume I have a mandate for change …

“On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.”

“On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.”

“We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.”

This is an American President speaking to his fellow American citizens: “The God-given promise that all Americans are equal, all Americans are free, and all Americans deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.”

“In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given.”

Our individual God-given rights are a given: they arise from God and have absolutely nothing to do with government. And it is through a willing amalgamation of our individual strengths that our nation becomes great.

“It must be earned.”

It does not have to be earned, it is our right as individuals who have banded together in self-governance. And while it does not have to be earned, it has to be nurtured. Nurtured by individuals who recognize the natural law and the benefits of free association for mutual assistance.

“Our journey has never been one of short-cuts or settling for less.”

“It has not been the path for the faint-hearted for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame.”

“Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things some celebrated but more often men and women obscure in their labor, who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom.”

True!

Immigration …

“For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and traveled across oceans in search of a new life.”

“For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West; endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth.”

“For us, they fought and died, in places like Concord and Gettysburg; Normandy and Khe Sahn.”

“Time and again these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life.”

They sacrificed much, and in many cases made the ultimate sacrifice, so all could live in a land where freedom and liberty was the rule rather than the exception.

“They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions; greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.”

I disagree. They saw America, not being bigger than the sum of the individual ambitions, but as the nation that allowed for mutual freedoms, the willing combination of individual achievement for a common good, a structure that could and would defend its individual citizens from a common enemy that would have us as indentured servants to their ideologies.

“This is the journey we continue today. We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on Earth. Our workers are no less productive than when this crisis began. Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year. Our capacity remains undiminished.”

Our spirit, knowledge and ingenuity remains strong. But our capacity has been greatly diminished as we have outsourced critical industries and essential materials to foreign countries so that we may enjoy lower taxes and the benefits of cheap labor. If anything, the venality of some, caused in part by overly restrictive government policies, has sold out a portion of our vital national capacity to foreign sovereign nations by outsourcing and allowing the outright purchase of critical industries by those who do not wish us well. What combination of business and political forces allowed the covertly hostile Chinese Army to use a former Navy installation, located next to our most populous city, to ship thousands of uninspected cargo containers throughout our nation?

A slap at the former Administration?

“ But our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions that time has surely passed. Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.”

Lofty and necessary goals …

“For everywhere we look, there is work to be done. The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift, and we will act not only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth.We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together. We will restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality and lower its cost.We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories.And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age.”

“All this we can do. And all this we will do.”

Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans.Their memories are short. For they have forgotten what this country has already done; what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage.

Yes, these goals should be accomplished and it is not a matter of those who question those who dream big. It is a question of jurisdiction. Many of these goals should be accomplished by private corporations as there is no Constitutional mandate for our federal government to own and operate what has been, in the past, the purview of private industry – possibly acting under local and state regulations.

There is a fundamental misconception about money in Washington. It doesn’t belong to them, it belongs to the individual taxpayers who earned it. Perhaps the recovery funds should be disbursed to the states in proportion to their original contributions. And then, on a state level, grants made to private contractors who will agree to return this money to the people through lower costs and fees. All I know, from past historical reference, is that the federal government is structurally incapable of managing large sums of money without waste, fraud, corruption and malfeasance. Why should we believe that this Administration, mostly comprised of those who served past Administrations, with the task of doing something that they were unable to do previously?

It’s a new game?

“What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply.”

Perhaps the cynics, myself included, understand all too well that an evil confluence of politics, politicians and their special interest friends have created this crisis and are now attempting to use it to further their own political and personal ends. Who were the people who told us to invest in America, place our money in banks, trust that the regulators would strictly enforce prudent and sound money-handling practices? The cynics, at least in this case, have a right to be skeptical – they were the ones who lost 50% or more of their assets due to the malevolent greed of an elite few, unobserved by their so-called government regulators, some of which also profited mightily from this lack of oversight.

Why should I believe a politician who has risen through his self-serving actions through a corrupt Chicago political machines and finessed his way into the White House? Because he is telegenic and speaks well when using a TelePrompTer? I don’t care if he is white, black, purple or green – I care that he is honest and competent; not a newbie who will make it up as he goes along or fall prey to malevolent advisors who may have their own agenda and be serving another master. Damn the media for not doing their job in protecting America from those who seem to spend more time calculating political spin than producing solid public policy.

We have trusted billions of dollars to those who confirm the fact that there was no reason behind that particular amount other than it needed to be a “big” number. And regardless of the leadership change at the top, or the new faces in Congress, it is the same old political masters who are pulling the strings.

Wrong question …

“The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified.”

The correct question is: does the Constitution of the United States empower the federal government to provide these services or should their provision be a state function, subject to voter approval?

“Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward.Where the answer is no, programs will end.”

This is no more than feel-good social engineering. Yes it would be nice to create high-paying jobs for everyone, provide them with the best health care and usher them offstage with a cushy retirement package. Truth be told, we only do this for our politicians and those who are politically well-connected. One need only look at the job security, salaries and perks of government workers (many represented by public service unions) to see that they are isolated from much of the pain found in the private sector. Enlarging government and raising taxes to accomplish your lofty goals is far less attractive than portrayed by the political spinmeisters. For those who do not recognize what is happening here, it is socialism. Centrally-planned actions to manage the collective. A subversion of individual responsibility in favor of more government entitlements.

And should they return our economy to relative health; I say relative because they will need to deal with the value-robbing inflationary billions pumped into our economy, they will soon need to create another crisis to continue their oppressive political behavior. I predict this might be a global warming, “save the planet” issue.

Accountability …

And those of us who manage the public's dollars will be held to account to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.

Politicians and their special interest friends have never been fully accountable to the American people. Billions of dollars associated with government projects have disappeared without a trace. And the government, in spite of the fact that we can compute the orbital trajectory to put a man on the moon, cannot develop a trusted accounting system nor can they develop a system which tracks visitors (both inward and outward) to the United States. But of course, we already know the answer: it is not incompetence, it is obfuscation and corruption by design – for the sole purpose of plausible political deniability and to mask the money flowing to those special interests who support today’s politicians.

If President Obama was serious about accountability, let him purchase an off-the-shelf copy of an accounting program and force each and every government agency to use it. No more funny budgeting or allocations to obscure funding accounts. No more funny squirreling of in hidden accounts to be used as a uncontrolled slush fund.

Free market capitalism and regulatory powers …

“Nor is the question before us whether the market is a force for good or ill. Its power to generate wealth and expand freedom is unmatched, but this crisis has reminded us that without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control and that a nation cannot prosper long when it favors only the prosperous.”

The sad fact is that the regulators did not enforce the regulations already on the books or succumbed to the assault of loophole bearing lawyers with enough arguments to tie the matter up in court for years. When politicians, many of whom are lawyers, are allowed to use special interests to draft legislation and permit ambiguous wording we can rest assured that the result will be “legalized fraud.” How many citizens know that Congress voted – and President Clinton signed – a bill which exempted those who created toxic securities from state gaming laws? Yes, that’s right! These people knew they were gambling and did not want any state to prosecute them for engaging in a prohibited act.

“The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our Gross Domestic Product, but on the reach of our prosperity;on our ability to extend opportunity to every willing heart not out of charity, but because it is the surest route to our common good.”

This is government-forced wealth re-distribution couched in terms of “our common good.” No – it is robbing the hard-working, law-abiding American taxpayer of the fruits of his labor at the point of a gun – and giving it to someone who the politician deems worthy. Socialism!

“As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals.”

We can thank George Orwell for writing a book in which the government claims “up is down,” “right is left” and evil is good.”

Remember the quote attributed to Benjamin Franklin, “He who gives up freedom for safety deserves neither?” Well that is exactly what the Obama Administration is asking. They are asking us to cede a portion of our freedom and liberty for the safety of a governmental entitlement. In the case of so-called “global warming,” giving up the right to use energy as we wish – and conserve for the good of all. To sacrifice our men and women to guard the bridges and infrastructure we are building in Iraq when our own infrastructure is crumbling and is in desperate need of repair or replacement.

Consider for a moment the war in Iraq. We opt for ridiculous rules of engagement that place our people at greater risk to protect those who openly support the enemy. Because our politicians lack the strength of character to draw a line in the sand and explain the consequences of stepping over the line. They are reluctant to use appropriate force when necessary. These politicians have gotten more combat soldiers killed than necessary. We know Iran is behind the production and importation of deadly and sophisticated IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices) and has nuclear ambitions – so they talk to each other over opulent dinners, convincing themselves that America is more secure when they don’t act aggressively toward our enemies. They are more afraid of the media and foreign leaders than they are of the American public – because they know that Americans, especially today, do not want to be disturbed from their American Idol television program to face the cold, hard truth that we are ceding our liberty to the enemy in return for a modicum of safety. Knowing that Americans will vote for the telegenic candidate with oratorical skills and a “feel good agenda.” Perhaps America deserves this particular wake up call?

“Our Founding Fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations.

The peril was death by hanging as a traitor. The charter was our Constitution. And it has been protected by the blood of Patriots. So, ask yourself, why are they so hell-bent in moving beyond its wise guidance and trying to nullify those portions which protect man against the tyranny of the government. Yes, folks – the Second Amendment. The very same Second Amendment that Barack Obama and Eric Holder, his nominee for Attorney General, claim applies to the collective and not the individual. Self-defense and the possession of a handgun in New York and Washington will get you a felony conviction and a jail sentence. At the same time those who would rob, maim, rape and kill you walk around armed – for it is only the law abiding citizen who must be disarmed. Nothing mentioned about the criminal, many of whom are poor minorities with their own ideas about wealth re-distribution.

“Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake. And so to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more.”

Note to Obama: we will never give them up, period! And we lead by example. Our country may have flaws (mostly caused by criminals, politicians and their cohorts), but there is not a greater country on the face of the Earth. We have always led the way – offering protection, with our blood when necessary, to others. There is no lead “once more” – we may be despised by governments and those they educate to hate us – but we are admired by all those who recognize that they are being oppressed. Name one other country where people will risk their life to exit their country to enter America. How many people illegally steal across Saudi Arabia’s borders in search of freedom and opportunity.

Talking to our enemies, negotiating with evil ...

“Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with sturdy alliances and enduring convictions.They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.”

Our cause is our God-given freedom and the right to self-defense. Our cause is just an unequivocal. As before, our unwillingness to protect ourselves will be our undoing. Showing humility and restraint to those who demand we become subservient to their religion and their nation was the cause of 9/11. Bowing before an ruthless enemy which declares everyone “not of the faith” to be the enemy will present particular challenges to this new President. And for the sake of America and its continued survival, let us hope he is up to the challenge.

By definition, negotiation involves some form of compromise where the parties are willing to come together, each taking a little bit less of what they want, in order to pursue a mutual benefit. But I ask you, what benefit should be conferred on evil and those who do not wish us well?

“We are the keepers of this legacy. Guided by these principles once more,we can meet those new threats that demand even greater effort even greater cooperation and understanding between nations.”

We cannot simply request a hostile power cooperate with America or even the world community. Check your history. UN Sanctions against Saddam Hussein; universal condemnation of Iran’s nuclear program. Yada, Yada, Yada.

Obama’s War: Afghanistan …

“We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people, and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan.”

We may withdraw our troops to their bases and limit their activities, but the drain on our finances will continue as we provide limited support to Iraq and make a full-assault on Afghanistan. I am not so sure that Obama won’t simply agree to allow the Taliban back into a coalition government (similar to Iraq) and continue to supply all parties with taxpayer money -- and then call it a victory.

“With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet.”

Global warming remains one of the greatest political scams ever perpetrated by the far left environmentalists whose movement has been infiltrated by socialists, communists and anarchists as a method of pursuing the political action agenda while receiving tax-exempt funding as a non-profit.This represents a great threat to our freedom and serves as a vehicle to increase taxes, enlarge government and reduce our liberties –- all to fight an improbable proposition which takes hundreds of years to manifest results.

Talking tough for the right…

“We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken; you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you.”

Our strength is in our diversity …

“For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness.We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus and non-believers.We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.”

Let’s all sing …

“Kum ba yah, my Lord, kum ba yah”

“Kum ba yah, my Lord, kum ba yah”

“Kum ba yah, my Lord, kum ba yah”

“Oh Lord, kum ba yah”

Overcoming centuries of conflict with a smile …

“To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.”

But enough about Saudi Arabia (rimshot). The thought that any American, an infidel by any Muslim’s standards, can change a religion that demands death or subservience to anyone not of the religion is beyond ludicrous, it is downright dangerous. Until the religion is reformed and the church is separated from dictator states, there will be no meaningful Middle East reform or peace in Obama’s lifetime – let alone in in first or, heaven forbid, second term. To hang your Administration’s collective hat on the hopes that there is something resembling a “moderate” Muslim in Arab or other Muslim countries is to be whistling Dixie while walking past the graveyards of generations of soldiers. Obama will probably appoint low level envoys (with Hillary Clinton’s permission should she be confirmed) to come forth with meaningless meeting protocols and accords which will change nothing.

It is unknown whether or not President Obama will support Israel – especially if they attack Iran. Something I thought might occur prior to Obama’s inauguration, but which has been masterfully delayed by the Hamas fighters working on Iran’s payroll.

Re-distributing the wealth …

We will involuntarily tax the people of the United States to buy the cooperation of world leaders; re-distributing the wealth to those less fortunate who are not citizens of our great nation. Including funds for those who leaders who steal our money, subjugate their people and openly mock us for our naiveté and weakness.

To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds.

“And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to suffering outside our borders; nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect.”

Not only shall we capitalize on the hard work of Americans to make your worlds better, but we shall change our mode of living so that the differences between us are diminished – all under the guise of saving the planet from global warming.

“For the world has changed, and we must change with it.”

Those that do not wish us well seem to have won the war of words, of ideas and ideologies – for President Obama is saying that we must change our lifestyles to match those of others. How very European. How very socialist.

A tribute to the troops who have protected us from the evil that Obama now wants to embrace and reward with both recognition and funding …

“As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains. They have something to tell us today, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages. We honor them not only because they areguardians of our liberty, but because theyembody the spirit of service; awillingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves. And yet, at this moment a moment that will define a generation it is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.

True Americans will realize that our troops are the guardians of OUR liberty, embody a spirit of service to OUR nation and willing to find meaning in something greater than themselves – America and all of its legal citizens.

“For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies.”

“It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break, the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours. It is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.”

These are acts of free will, not coerced by any central government or politician. These are helping hands which are freely extended to neighbors and those similarly situated within our great nation. And when we see that we can assist those outside of our own city, state and country, we do so freely and without being compelled to donate our money, time and effort. We help because we are Americans – not because our government takes our tax money and helps those who take our assistance, not with gratitude; but with a sense of entitlement.

Our challenge as Americans …

“Our challenges may be new. The instruments with which we meet them may be new. But those values upon which our success depends hard work and honesty, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism these things are old. These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history.”

“What is demanded then is a return to these truths.”

Our challenge, as Americans, is to elect honest politicians who recognize the value and worth of each and every American citizen, who realize that they exist to do our bidding, to act for our benefit and to give up their self-interests in order to serve the American people. It is one thing to speak of values and of worthy ideals – and then to corrupt them for political self-interest. To politicians, all of the words that describe Americans: hard working, honest, courageous, tolerant, curious, loyal and patriotic, should not form the basis for coercing fellow citizens into serving politicians and their political party; and allowing them to drain the fruits of our labors away so that they may retain office by pandering to the special interests with their own agendas. To elect politicians who do not divide us along racial, ethnic, religious or financial lines; but rather unite us as Americans to better ourselves and, by extension, America herself.

New era or old failed ideas?

“What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation, and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task.”

“This is the price and the promise of citizenship.”

The price of citizenship is to individually strengthen ourselves first, because only the strong can contribute willingly to others and to his country. But we are not, as some may assume, citizens of the world who should have the world’s burdens placed upon our backs to further weaken us, individually and collectively. Again, we must separate our individual charity and that which is forced upon us by politicians operating in their own best interests. Truth be told, the promise of citizenship is to preserve our way of life, to assure that we remain free and prosperous, to leave a lasting legacy to our children … and to voluntarily share our blessings when we, as individuals, deem it appropriate.

There are actions taken by our politicians which are not authorized under our Constitution. Actions made possible by the tortured twisting of words and interpretations born of whole cloth. We need to return to our Constitutional roots rather than become a manipulated collective.

“This is the source of our confidence the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.”

Our destiny is far from uncertain. It is the manifest enjoyment of our God-given rights with as little intrusion as possible from a government which has wildly grown beyond anything imagined by our forefathers. While our guiding principles have remained constant, it is the politicians who are bending America to the will of those who can afford to manipulate the media, raise large campaign funds and to insure that their membership will vote as they are told.

“This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent mall, and why a man whose father less than sixty years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.”

While we have made great racial strides in electing a bi-racial fellow citizen to office, it should be said, on this solemn occasion, that the man who has been elected, and his political party, has never been afraid to divide Americans by race, ethnicity, religion and class to gain a political advantage. While it is a magnificent achievement for any American to become the President of the United States, it should be noted that his election was more a confluence of events in which a highly polarized nation was voting against a president and his political party than voting for the candidate for office. Aided and abetted by a media who had ceded their journalistic ethics and could no longer tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. Also aided an abetted by prodigious fundraising, some of which might have come from foreign sources who saw in this candidate, a kindred spirit and willingness to further drain America’s coffers and weaken her in relationship to other nations.

“So let us mark this day with remembrance, of who we are and how far we have traveled. In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by dying campfires on the shores of an icy river. The capital was abandoned.The enemy was advancing. The snow was stained with blood. At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people:

‘Let it be told to the future world that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet [it].’"

Let us not forget that we were fighting for our survival against a foreign oppressor, one that would summarily confiscate the fruits of our labors in the form of taxes. And impose other egregious sanctions on our budding band of liberty-seeking Americans. Those who have gone before us have fought and died to determine our own destiny.

And I find it highly ironic that we are now engaged in a similar fight against those who would confiscate the fruits of our labors in the form of taxes. Maybe indirectly, to support a burgeoning government with ever-growing power – but confiscate the fruits of our labors nevertheless.

We are fighting an internal enemy and we must all realize that we could lose our America, and our freedoms, without ever having fired a shot in self-defense. Our freedoms and the fruits of our labor are slowly disappearing in a morass of laws, rules and regulations designed to exert control over Americans in the guise of keeping us safe and benefiting society. Until one sad day, we will wake up and find that we have committed the egregious and felonious act of living life as we have lived it in the past.

“America. In the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words. With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come. Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.”

Let us hope that newly-elected President Obama realizes that it is our individual strengths which make us strong; and when willingly combined with the strengths of others, makes us invincible as a nation. It would be a sad day for America to see our nation become Europe, an allegedly civilized society that exists for the good of the collective – and those of wealth and power who manage it in their own self interests.

While I hope a President Obama will turn from his previous path and take a step towards the light, I am cognizant of his past political environment and the fellow travelers who have assisted his journey to the White House. But, as an American, I do hope that President Obama has the courage and the wisdom to move beyond politics and the manufactured media image of Abraham Lincoln to achieve the greatness of a Lincoln. While it may be unlikely, one of the greatest things about American and Americans is that it is possible.

Thank you for reading my blog. Be well and be safe.

-- steve

The Quote of the day is actually a few quotes from that great statesman, Winston Churchill, who most definitely knew something of war and statesmanship.

“All great things are simple, and many can be expressed in single words: freedom, justice, honor, duty, mercy, hope.”

“However beautiful the strategy, you should occasionally look at the results.”

“An appeaser is one who feeds a crocodile, hoping it will eat him last.”

The reason the Republicans lost the election is because they lost their conservative soul to the Rockefeller-wing of the party which believed that more government, more spending, less regulation and frat-boy cronyism were sufficient to guide our great nation. Pandering to those in the middle to join our party while catering to an ethnic/racial minority by promising what they could not deliver. In essence, turning into liberal democrats.

Simply stated: they lost their moral compass and failed to engage the democrats, as well as the American people, in a substantive conversation about the direction of the country. Primarily because both parties were heading the same way; down the primrose path to liberalism.

We need to rebuild the Republican party using the precepts of Reagan-style conservatism.

Stating our principles and inviting all who agree to join us in the recovery of our great nation. And, there is nothing mysterious about these principles:

(1) The first job of government is to uphold the Constitution and to protect us from our enemies, both foreign and domestic.

(2) The second job of government is to regulate the relations between the individual states and to perform those duties which should be performed at a national level by virtue of being incapable of being performed by the individual states.

(3) The third job of government is to perform jobs one and two with a minimally-sized government entity and at the lowest possible cost.

Where it went wrong …

Over time, the political parties became stronger and stronger and the support they received from the special interests began to interfere with the governance of the United States. Simultaneously, the public grew more and more apathetic as they were brainwashed by a complicit media into thinking that life was just grand. At some point in time, this apathetic public wanted assurances and guarantees that life would continue on as before – and entitlements were born.

Now we have two political parties which are competing in doling out entitlements to capture the vote and taxpayer dollars to the special interests in order to raise the funding to re-gain or remain in political office. Both parties have ignored the corruption, waste, fraud and mismanagement of the government in order to get their share of the political pie.

Government has grown so corrupt as to now offer illegal aliens the chance at amnesty, becoming legal citizens and being able to capitalize on the benefits which were once reserved for citizens – all in return for their future vote. Both parties have ignored that the influx of illegal aliens amounts to a hostile takeover of the United States.

These politicians watch our healthcare, educational, judicial, retirement, social and cultural infrastructure crumble as they count party votes which may or may not materialize in the next twenty years. In some states it has gotten so bad, that the illegal aliens are being offered the benefits of citizenship without even becoming citizens.

And so we find that the democrat party, cobbled together from special interests and fringe elements; and with financing which may come from those who do not wish the United States well, has managed to secure the Presidency and a majority of Congress. Soon to be a majority on the Supreme Court as well.

So how can I possibly bestow my blessings on this corrupt cabal of politicians – held in check only by public opinion, and then, just barely? One need only consider Barack Obama’s background, filled with dubious characters of questionable repute to see that he is less likely to represent change than he is the continuation of democrat party “machine” politics.

And I am afraid of the results!

Moving forward: consider California to be the “coal mine canary.”

In many cases, California serves as the model for the rest of the states. Whether fads or legitimate innovations, trends often start onthe left coast.

California’s Congressional leadership consists primarily of the same type of liberal democrats found elsewhere; primarily in the federal government. Democrats which have spent California into a budgetary deficit ranging from $12 billion to $44 billion depending on whose numbers you believe and the nature of their hidden agenda. California’s Governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger is a self-absorbed, narcissistic, actor playing the role of a governor. In spite of his public accolades by the fans and fawning media, he has proven he has very little intellectual horsepower and is, for all intents and purposes, a liberal democrat seeking his next office.

Why haave California’s politicians turned the once golden state into a disaster? And how likely is this disaster likely to malignantly spread to other states?

Let’s see what’s wrong with California:

A steadily enlarging government, filled with waste, fraud, corruption and malfeasance. With control being shared by the legislature, governor and the bureaucrats as they pander to the special interests, primary of whom are the public service unions. No matter how much money is available from state revenues, the legislature manages to spend significantly more. Papering over the difference with borrowing and accounting schemes. California leads the state in spending on government employees. Consider their outrageous salaries and pensions which are unavailable in the private sector. Guaranteed employment is almost a given regardless of the employee's level of performance or even the need for such a functionary. This is unlikely to get better, even if tax revenue is raised – the legislature will continue to spend money they don’t have; on projects which have little or no lasting value. Instead of money being spent to repair or replace our crumbling infrastructure, money is being spent on social engineering efforts and projects which benefit the private interests.

A failed educational system which demands a fixed portion of all incoming funds has proven that money does not necessarily improve education. One need only to look at California’s largest school system, the Los Angeles Unified School District, where the political players are more interested in soothing the ego of a billionaire by building a $230 million modern art high school monstrosity to serve as part of his overall development project than they are in graduating actual students. Performance, no matter how measured, is abysmal and the LAUSD has just paid their Superintendent $500,000 to walk away from his contract -- because the board failed to set achievable goals and thus were dissatisfied with his lack of performance. In the real world, you fire the non-performer for cause, not reward them with more than a half million dollar bonus.

A declining number of major corporations, wealthy individuals and others who support the bulk of the tax burden. These people are leaving California for Nevada and other states with lower taxes, reduced living expenses and a business-friendly environment.

An unelected sub-government consisting of those who act as Mexican nationals; as they confer the benefits of citizenship on non-citizens to the detriment of the state’s law-abiding citizens and legal residents. These politicians are engaging in social engineering to upgrade the lifestyle of illegal aliens who arrive in droves. Thus California consciously continues to import more poverty and illiteracy – and demands that their legal and law-abiding residents pay for their good works. Consider that a member of the military or an out-of-state non-resident must pay the non-resident school tuition; and yet, we spend approximately $200 million to provide free college educations for illegal aliens.

And let us not forget the special interests who spend pennies on the dollar to win lucrative government contracts which are somewhat unlikely to be audited or even produce tangible results. Purposely using low bids to win the contracts and "change orders" to insure a heafty profit. These are the people who have corrupted our government with their campaign donations and/or promises to deliver large voting blocks.

Outrageous!

Add to that the draconian rules and regulations that are imposed on California businesses and which insures that they are less able to compete in the nation as well as the world.

The numbers: Since Governor Schwarzenegger was elected to curtail legislative spending and to bring government under control in 2003, legislative spending has increased by a an outrageous 40%. A real dollar expansion of $41 billion, to a total of $144.8 billion annually. And our tax base is eroding as people move out of state. Fourteen percent of wealthy Californians (earning more than $100,000) pay 83% of the income taxes

All-in-all, the Governor and the legislature have all but destroyed the California dream.

In addition to the special interests, we have the limousine liberals in both Hollywood and the Bay Area who support these confiscatory policies as they have more money than they can ever spend, tax shelters from the best advisors and who remain totally unaffected by the positions they advocate. These are the people who supported Barack Obama and fervently hope that the federal government will bail out California. The “do as I say, don’t do as I do” crowd.

And this is the democrat model …

So explain to me why I should wish Obama and his merry band of re-tread Clintonistas well. Let them fail and cause the people, the majority of the people, to demand real reform. Reform of the political parties, reform of the government – and above all reform of a large segment of our population that thinks it has a right to government handouts to exist in the real world.

If Obama fails to hold on tight to the far-left liberal tiger he rode to power, he will surely be consumed and make way for a conservative Republican political base. Not the effete North Eastern Harvard/Princeton/Yale liberals and snobs who play at government, but real working people who know that it takes more than saying “My name is Caroline Kennedy” to obtain a Senate seat.

A debt of gratitude …

No matter what you think of our current President, he has managed to keep up safe from terrorism and has taken the fight to the enemy. Although despised by those organizations which have been infiltrated by our enemies and those who naturally hate America, he has done his job to the best of his ability.

So pardon me …

while I wish Obama a one-term Presidency which will encounter a Republican reformation in the Congress in 2010.

And for those of you who claim that President Obama will move farther to the center from his leftist position, may I remind you that President Bush moved the center so far left with his spending policies that Hillary Clinton, Ted Kennedy and John Kerry almost look like moderate liberals instead of far-left loons. So any attempt for an obvious reconcilliation effort with the right is likely to be simply a strategic ploy to make President Obama appear to be something he his most definitely not: a Joe Liberman-style moderate democrat. For those who follow politics, this is the Dick Morris "triangulation" gambit where one side simply co-opts the issues of the other in order to deny the other side traction.

We should also beware of faux-Republicans like California's Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Senators John McCain and his new best friend, Senator Lindsey Graham who are all too willing to rush into the democratic camp and serve as Judas goats.

There is no doubt that America will survive due to the resiliency and resourcefulness of the American people. Hopefully, the politicians and other evil-doers who put us in this precarious position will be prosecuted and lose their ill-gotten gains. Or at the very least, shamed into silence.

-- steve

P.S. At this point in time, we are not experiencing the worst economic times since the great depression, we are experiencing the worst economic times since democrat Jimmy Carter's Administration.

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

Al Gore got an Oscar for a so-called documentary which used faked footage of ice calving to make a point. So why shouldn’t Barack Obama get the Aaron Sorkin “West Wing” Award for the best delivery of a written speech?

The triumph of style over substance?

Somehow, looking Presidential in front of a famous and revered Abraham Lincoln – complete with Obama’s favorite columns – is somewhat spoiled by the TelePrompTer that is necessary to turn Obama into the telegenic orator he often plays on television. Hence, he should be a clear winner of an Emmy for best political drama.

Personally I am tired of Obama’s desire to be connected with the legacy of Abraham Lincoln. Here is a man who has not spent a single day in the Presidency, with not even a hint of greatness apparent – playing a role – just like any other empty suit telegenic actor.

While the jury is out until 2012 – I would much rather Obama deal with solving the problems at hand and making himself available to the working media than striking arrogant poses and delivering TelePrompTered speeches.

And speaking of the media, when are they going to get over their slavish devotion of someone whose record of achievement, other than be elected to the Presidency, is less accomplished than, say, Sarah Palin?

-- steve

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

A friend of mine who is less than enthusiastic about the Golden Globes and the Oscars asked me to name the worst movie of the year; constrained, of course, by those I have actually seen.

Without a moment’s hesitation I named David Zucker’s “An American Carol” as the worst piece of crap that I had experienced in 2008 – and possibly of all time.

Not only was the script garbage, but the acting was wooden and as lethargic as Michael Malone, the Kevin Farley portrayal of “documentary” filmmaker Michael Moore.

This is the type of film that is conceived by over-tired slap-happy amateurs working at three o’clock in the morning. (My friend Pat might be the only one to really appreciate this part of the review.) Nothing is funny. Nothing works. And even the production values leave much to be desired. And yet, the filmmakers continue to forge their way through the production.

How talented individuals, with the exception of Paris Hilton who plays herself, could sign-on to such a project is beyond me. I wonder what they thought when they saw the picture on the big screen? The best performance was by Robert Davi who portrayed a serious radical jihadist with some semblance of reality and great comedic timing. Unfortunately, against his portrayal, the others looked like faded tintype pictures held up against a Kodak moment.

Following the money …

According to boxofficemojo.com, the project (I hesitate to use the word film, movie or motion picture) has a reported budget of $20 million and a lifetime box office gross of $7,013,191. Even the magic of Hollywood accounting couldn’t make this a breakeven winner – unless, using the magic of syndication, everyone got paid upfront.

The cover blurb claims: “It’s radical … It’s Brave… And it’s funny.

The premise of jihadists trying to blow up a Madison Square Gardens country music concert for the troops -- and being saved by Michael Malone is beyond the pale. Even with the framing of Dickens’ like Christmas Carol characters, it misses the mark by a continent. Perhaps it might be funny in Afghanistan, but maybe not.

Believe me, there is nothing radical, brave or funny contained in this movie. Even the security device glued into the DVD's packaging is more interesting than watching this painful example of 1980’s style filmmaking. Possibly director David Zucker’s attempt to recreate Airplane using a string of lame jokes told in a desiccated manner. I tried to find another word to describe the film, but desiccated is the best description. Definition: Desiccate -- to make dry, dull, or lifeless. See, a perfect description!

Warning …

The only reason I am posting this entry is to warn my fellow Americans; be they conservative, liberal or simply apathetic, that this movie is a total waste of time, effort and money. This is the type of movie that could convince copyright pirates to give up counterfeiting DVDs.

-- steve

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

The democratic party, being somewhat devoid of core principles and fixated on the moral equivalence between good and evil, has cobbled together a coalition of society’s fringe elements in order to achieve political power. Made possible because of the failure of the Republican party to stay faithful to its conservative roots – and the number of Republican politicians who have been outed as “hypocrites” for promoting honesty and family values; and then doing something quite different.

Gays seeking disproportionate power …

There is no doubt that gay activists are trying to wield a disproportionate amount of power in the democratic party to push their agenda.

First, to make gays (GLBTs) a protected class which offers them a platform where they can seemingly use the power of the state to challenge even the smallest of legitimate claims in daily life, especially in the workplace. One can not help wonder if “gay” will be the new “black” when it comes to hiring, firing and discipline? With people walking on eggshells to avoid even giving the appearance of impropriety.

Second, and even of more concern, is the revocation of the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy in the military.

While we have no doubt that there are capable, honorable gays serving in today’s military, freely opening the door may introduce major problems that could consequently weaken the military. Problems involving a problematical reduction in experienced soldiers as older veterans fail to re-enlist. Problems with unit integrity. Problems with facilities and the need to recognize “special” requirements. Problems with medical treatment on the battlefield where HIV-positive soldiers might be encountered. And, of course, an erosion in military command and control based on cronyism and special interests. An erosion of the professionalism of our volunteer forces.

But then again, there is talk among democrats in reviving the draft – to make things fair! (Excepting of course, those who are rich, privileged or politically connected.)

How likely is one to see this agenda being promoted?

“Don't Ask, Don't Tell”

“Responding to average-people questions at Change.org, Robert Gibbs affirms Obama's determination to end the current policy governing gays in the military. ("Yes," he replies, when asked if Obama will overturn the ‘don't ask, don't tell’ system fashioned on the fly in Bill Clinton's first months.)”

“The question is when, exactly, Obama will be willing to wade into this thicket. Thus far the reporting on that front has been conflicting, but it seems like the memory of Clinton's agonizing 1993 experience, which spoiled his electoral honeymoon, has him holding off on the specifics for the time being.” <Source>

Consider H.R. 1246, the Military Readiness Enhancement Act (MREA), championed by California Representative Ellen Tauscher which seems to have little or nothing to do with military readiness and everything to do with “gays.”

“To amend title 10, United States Code, to enhance the readiness of the Armed Forces by replacing the current policy concerning homosexuality in the Armed Forces, referred to as "Don't Ask, Don't Tell", with a policy of nondiscrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.” <Source>

Once again the democrats fall back on sentence parsing and Orwellian naming conventions.

Like their attempts to re-define the word marriage and to press the attack in the courts when a majority of legal citizens have voted to retain the traditional “one man, one woman” definition that promotes family unity and serves society well.

This is the party which says little or nothing about the tremendous societal disruption and burden placed on society by single-parent families as a result of glorifying non-traditional marriage and living arrangements.

Plan of attack …

Of course, considering the democrat’s anti-Iraq stance and the number of anti-war and peace activists present in the democrat party, one must rightfully consider that this is just another avenue to weaken our military and promote the public policies of those who do not wish us well.

ODE TO THE FUTURE?

A reminder that Hollywood, San Francisco and New York are an atypical representative of our middle-America core values.

Tell your elected officials that pandering to any special interest should not be tolerated and those candidates and officials that engage in creating inappropriate legislation which weakens the United States military, economy and cultural norms will be sanctioned at the ballot box.

Regardless of their proclamation of an electoral “mandate,” almost half of the United State were willing to vote for a rather lame Republican candidate to preserve our traditional values.

We are at a point of “weakness” and the tipping point for rational behavior in the United States Congress has been reached. Sudden moves to reform the system should be carefully scrutinized and then monitored lest unintended consequences have an adverse effect on our nation.

As for marriage, retain the traditional definition and make civil unions which convey equal rights and privileges the law of the land. As for gays in the military, do what is best for the military and unit cohesiveness. As for the draft, nobody has proved that the volunteer model has failed – and those in the National Guard were forewarned about the possibility of combat assignments.

There is much we can and should change: starting with our corrupt, inept and grossly incompetent politicians.

-- steve

Quote of the Day: “One ought never to turn one's back on a threatened danger and try to run away from it. If you do that, you will double the danger. But if you meet it promptly and without flinching, you will reduce the danger by half.” -- Sir Winston Churchill

A reminder from OneCitizenSpeaking.com: a large improvement can result from a small change…

The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane. -- Marcus Aurelius

Reference Links:

"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius

Schwarzenegger's 11 minute speech said nothing ... and was a demostration of his incompetence as California's governor.

According to Arnold’s Official Website …

ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER38TH Governor of California

“The world knows Arnold Schwarzenegger as a famous bodybuilder and a Hollywood action hero, but he is also a successful businessman, generous philanthropist and California's 38th Governor.”

Unfortunately, many Californian’s now know Governor Schwarzenegger as a narcissistic, ego-driven "movie star” who seeks adoration over results. He is no politician – he merely plays one!

Notable accomplishments?

“Governor Schwarzenegger's most notable accomplishments in his first five years in office include the nation-leading Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 - a bipartisan agreement to combat global warming by reducing California's greenhouse gas emissions - and overhauling the state's workers' compensation system - cutting costs by more than 35 percent. In addition, Governor Schwarzenegger is the first governor in decades to make major investments in improving California's aging infrastructure through his Strategic Growth Plan, helping to reduce congestion and clean the air. He established the Hydrogen Highway and Million Solar Roofs Plan, continuing his leadership in creating a greener environment.”

There is no proof that any program that Arnold Schwarzenegger recommends will change the global climate one iota. In fact, there is absolutely no way to measure any weather-related deviation as any miniscule change would be lost in the noise of the weather’s normal variability.

Fails to notice the fat, bloated government and his fat cat special interests …

“As Governor, he has been California's most effective marketing tool, traveling across the country and around the world promoting California-grown products, cutting-edge technologies and the state's diverse travel destinations. In addition, using his background as an internationally recognized athlete, Governor Schwarzenegger has made restoring health and fitness a top priority. He signed legislation making the state's school nutrition standards the most progressive in the nation and continues to promote healthy habits by taking harmful trans fats out of California restaurants and ensuring nutritional information is available to diners.”

Fiscal reform?

Additionally, since he took office, Governor Schwarzenegger has worked to reform California's fiscal policies, create a better business environment, reduce burdens on employment, boost exports and stimulate job growth. Through the end of 2007, California's Gross State Product had grown by 29 percent since the governor took office in 2003.

The governor is a stone cold, bold-faced liar! Under his watch, spending has increased over 40% in real dollars. His promises of eliminating waste, fraud and corruption in the California Government is a sham public relations effort – as he appointed his cronies and politically important people to the high-paying boards he vowed to eliminate.

The governor’s entire public policy can be defined as “LOOK AT ME, I AM GREAT, IT IS SO BECAUSE I SAY IT IS SO!”

2009 State of the State Speech …

In approximately eleven minutes, three or less if you take out the acknowledgements of other politicians and the routine crap, there was nothing of substance contained within the speech.

"Let me tell you, I have big plans for this state. They include action on the economy, on water, environment, education, and health care reform, government efficiency and reform, job creation, and the list goes on and on," Schwarzenegger said. "But our first order of business is to solve the budget crisis."

What the hell has Schwarzenegger done in the past five years? He stands before the people and claims we are in a major fiscal crisis and then goes on to say he wants to spend even more.

This man is delusional and will do or say almost anything to get approval …

His proposal that legislators should lose their salaries and per diem if the budget is not submitted on time – like a few measly dollars would mean something to people who raise and spend multi-million dollar amounts on their campaigns.

“We should make a commitment that legislators -- and the governor too -- lose per diem expenses and our paychecks, for every day the budget goes past the constitutional deadline of June 15.”

“You have to admit it is a brilliant idea. I mean, if you call a taxi and the taxi doesn't come, you don't pay the driver. If the people's work is not getting done, the people's representatives should not get paid either. That is common sense in the real world.”

Additional stupidities …

“So, I am encouraged that meaningful negotiations are underway. And, as difficult as the budget will be, good things can come out of it.”

“Because, in spite of the budget crisis, when we have worked together in the past, we have passed measures that moved this state -- and even the nation -- forward.”

“There is no course left open to us but this: to work together, to sacrifice together, to think of the common good -- not our individual good. No one wants to take money from our gang-fighting programs or from Medi-Cal or from education.”

“No one wants to pay more in taxes or fees. But each of us has to give up something because our country is in an economic crisis and our state simply doesn't have the money.”

Sacrifice to ratify and continue the legislature’s continued profligate spending? Where are the substantive budget cuts? Where are the real dollar cuts rather than the phony claim that a reduction in a budgetary increase is a tax cut?

What is he trying to do …

It appears that he wants to take the current budget deficit and roll it into the next budget and then fund both together … all with the purpose of papering over the problem, kicking the can down the road – so he can run for the Senate in 2010 with some form of accomplishment. No mention of the other real problem facing the state: illegal aliens and their union and church supporters.

Bottom line: Schwarzenegger has been an abject failure as a governor and would make an even worse Senator.

What can YOU do?

Remember what Schwarzenegger failed to do in two terms of as California’s governor.

Remember the broken promises to curtail spending and reduce the costs of government.

And remember that the man is a RINO (Republican In Name Only) and turned his back on those who bought his loyalty with their votes and money. He is a liar, cheat and thief – when you consider he took money under false pretenses when he ran as a conservative Republican and then morphed into a liberal sycophantic democrat.

END SCHWARZENEGGER’S POLITICAL CAREER AND ELECT A GOVERNOR WHO ACTUALLY CAN FUNCTION WITHOUT PUBLIC RELATIONS COUNSEL AND HOLLYWOOD STYLE SMOKE AND MIRRORS.

-- steve

A reminder from OneCitizenSpeaking.com: a large improvement can result from a small change…

The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane. -- Marcus Aurelius

For a man who said he was t0o rich and independent to be bought or be required to cater to the special interests, it's ironic that Governor Schwarzenegger has exceeded the fundraising prowess of his predecessor Gray Davis and caved in to liberal democrats and their special interest spending whenever possible.

According to the Sacramento Bee ...

"Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger says he has a price."

"If he is going to give up the no-new-taxes stance on which he staked his 2006 re-election campaign, he says, Democrats must agree to shove aside environmental rules for 11 highway projects and let private investors and builders play a larger role in state construction."

The triple whammy ...

Like a RINO (Republican In Name Only), Schwarzenegger is abandoning his so-called "conservative" principles and talking about raising taxes in a time of universally acknowledged recession.

Like a committed environmentalist and the spearhead of California's efforts to fight global warming, Schwarzenegger seems all to ready to abandon environmental rules -- especially as they may apply to concrete production.

And as one who is too rich to pander to the special interests, he is openly advocating to let private investors play a larger role in state construction.

But what do you expect from a man who declares himself to be no longer the candidate the people elected, but a post-partisan politician who is above party politics. A convenient cover for a political turncoat who is willing to turn his back on the party who elected him and do deals with the profligate spenders he was elected to rein in.

It's a role to be played and it's only an writer's words ...

"Schwarzenegger has long believed that higher taxes damage the economy; he said in 2006 it would be the 'worst thing' to do."

Notice how he is looking ahead to 2010 -- to clear his record before facing a Senate run?

"Now, facing a $40 billion budget deficit over the next 18 months, he says he is willing to bend if the state can offset the impact of raising taxes by making regulations friendlier to businesses."

Switch hitter?

Only months ago, the budget deficit was said to be somewhere between $12 BILLION and $24 BILLION -- with $14 BILLION mentioned as a likely number.

So how did we suddenly get to $40 BILLION or his Schwarzenegger trying to clear the whole deficit before his Senate run? Or his he trying to pull a PeteUeberroth? Ueberroth, as you may well remember was the head of the Los Angeles Olympic effort and overstated all costs in order to have a major surplus at the end of his watch.

Switching subjects: it is no longer about taxes or spending, it's about jobs and infrastructure...

Parroting the Obama line, Schwarzenegger has apparently turned into a liberal democrat.

" 'Really, the whole idea was that we help the people as much as possible in these very terrible times,' Schwarzenegger said last month as he rejected a Democratic plan to reduce the deficit by $18 billion because he said it didn't do enough to promote job growth."

" 'This proposal that they have sent down … does really only one thing, and this is punish the people of California,' he said."

Truth be told, Schwarzenegger is complicit in "punishing the people" as he signed off on every budget since he was elected. There is no "they!" It Schwarzenegger and the legislature who have spent the last five years spending California into an abyss -- and with little or nothing to show for all of that massive spending except nice new freeway sound walls which are graffiti magnets.

It's not his lifestyle that he is gambling with ...

"Schwarzenegger's action was risky; continued stalemate means the state will run out of cash in February, unable to pay tax refunds or state vendors."

He can move out of state to another one of his homes at a moment's notice. Not that he was even in the state when the new budget proposal was revealed during the New Year break. He was enjoying life in Sun Valley, Idaho -- at one of his other homes.

Diversionary tactic: look over there ...

"Democrats say the Republican governor is holding up the budget over a stimulus package they consider largely irrelevant to closing the state's massive deficit."

" 'Economic stimulus is extremely important, and we need to get Californians back to work,' Assembly Speaker Karen Bass, D-Los Angeles, said Wednesday. 'However, economic stimulus proposals will not address the (cash) situation that the state controller has indicated we will be facing in February. So it is our belief the governor should sign the proposal we put forward to address the immediate cash crisis.'"

More smoke and mirrors: seeking a position of plausible deniability?

Is the governor's goal to set the stage, so to speak, so that he can claim he fought hard against the democrat's dastardly budgetary plans?

"Despite issuing a separate budget proposal last week, the governor continues to negotiate with Democrats over their $18 billion package with the possibility he could sign it before February."

I can be bought; and I don't mind selling out my own party in the process ...

"The governor said last month that if Democrats give him what he wants, he'd sign the package even though it skirts the state's two-thirds vote requirement for taxes, making opposition by lawmakers of his own party irrelevant in a way they say is illegal."

What environmental impact?

Schwarzenegger is primarily asking to waive environmental restrictions so that $1.2 billion in road projects can begin as soon as this year, which he estimates would establish 21,600 jobs, including those created in other sectors by worker spending.

Can you say "special interests?"

"The governor is also asking to change construction guidelines to make it easier for private firms to build state projects, which he suggests would allow California to take advantage of even more federal and private capital."

Hollywood Lesson One: Looking Good ...

"Schwarzenegger's demands, if met, would allow the governor to say he scored some wins for business interests, even as he capitulated on taxes. It's a strategy likely to reappear during summer budget talks, when the governor is expected to ask Democrats to loosen rules over meal and rest breaks in exchange for further tax increases."

Looking tough by threatening the union or would the meal and rest breaks only apply to non-classified workers?

It doesn't matter if the results are mostly symbolic and can be exploited in the media for maximum advantage ...

"In the meantime, the governor's list of $1.2 billion in road projects likely won't have a game-changing effect in a $1.7 trillion statewide economy, though the administration believes it would help the recovery."

"The nonpartisan Legislative Analyst's Office said the proposal has some merit in a down economy, such as taking advantage of lower prices for materials and highly competitive bids as more firms are desperate for work. But it faces numerous challenges, principally the need for federal waivers."

"The analyst also noted that the plan would only accelerate construction by a few months, since several projects are already on track to begin in early 2010, not creating as immediate an impact as advertised. And the analyst report noted that stimulus would be confined to those areas where highway projects are located."

Special interests?

"But with the state desperate for new jobs, the governor likely believes there is no greater political opportunity than now to press the Democratic-controlled Legislature to make concessions that enable more long-term private involvement in state construction."

"Democrats oppose the governor's plan because they want the 11 specified road projects to undergo environmental review, whereas Schwarzenegger wants to eliminate that hurdle. Democrats also want more oversight over a procedure that incorporates the design and construction sequences into one, a change that Schwarzenegger wants because it is more favorable to private builders."

Only "acting" like a Republican?

"The governor's proposals would require Democrats to give up protections that environmentalists and state employee labor unions hold dear. Steinberg said there is room for agreement but that the governor shouldn't expect to get everything he wants."

The political way?

Do or say anything to pursue your own agenda has always been the way of politics, regardless of political party -- no matter whether or not you style yourself as a post partisan politician.

"In 2006, Schwarzenegger focused heavily on two messages – his opposition to taxes and his environmental credentials. Faced with far different economic circumstances in 2009, Schwarzenegger's message has shifted to creating jobs.

"While he once promoted his ability to balance environmental concerns with economic ones, he says the economic ones win out for now."

" 'What we want to do is strip away some of the rules and regulations that are holding us back now to do infrastructure in the first place," Schwarzenegger said last month. 'So we need jobs right now. For me the people are the most important thing, then we can worry about all the other regulations.'"

Bottom line ...

Schwarzenegger has abandoned the conservative principles of the Republican party and has joined the ranks of those politicians who will do or say anything to pursue their own personal agenda: in this case moving Schwarzenegger beyond Hollywood into a well-respected statesman.

About the only people who think that Arnold Schwarzenegger is a conservative Republican are his many publicists: and they do it because they are paid to promote him.

Truth be told, Schwarzenegger is a RINO (Republican In Name Only) who openly styles himself as a “post partisan” politician – a man of the people, not beholden to any political party.

If this were only true, and better yet, if the Governor was more than a narcissistic Hollywood caricature created by smoke and mirrors, he might have lived up to his campaign promises of reducing the waste, fraud and special interest corruption in the State of California – as well as hold the profligate spending of the democrat legislators in check.

Now, after five years of Schwarzenegger’s so-called post partisan leadership, we find that he appears to be as impotent and self-absorbed with fundraising as the predecessor he replaced, Gray Davis. In fact, he has proven to be a more able fundraiser that Davis, a Governor who was often symbolized as having his shorts around his ankles when it came to special interest fundraising. Infinitely more able as he created special non-profit foundations who funded his jet-set lifestyle while initially refusing to reveal their donors. Probably because most were special interests, lawyers and lobbyists.

And now we face a major challenge. The Golden State of California is running out of gold. According to who you ask, we are facing an $12 - $24 billion dollar deficit, which is projected to rise to somewhere in the neighborhood of $42 billion in eighteen months. All on Schwarzenegger’s “post partisan” watch.

Even Schwarzenegger’s own party can’t trust him to do the right thing for the State. Of course, that is partly because he appointed liberal democrats to major positions of power rather than qualified Republicans. He spent more time with the democrats than he did with members of his own party. Even the positions he takes mirrors those of another liberal democrat, his fabled relative, Ted Kennedy.

Schwarzenegger may be about to commit a crime against the people of California …

The democrats have cooked up a specious scheme in which taxes are replaced with fees in such a manner as to require a simple majority vote of the legislature – no Republican need vote for the tax measure. Of course, the California Constitution is pretty specific on the need for a two-thirds vote to pass a tax. So the measures being proposed by the democrats are illegal.

Perhaps the democrat-dominated legislature believes that they can collect enough money to paper over much of the present deficit – and it might be years before the courts order them to return the money to the taxpayers; probably in the form of reduced tax rates or a suspension of some fees. Heaven forbid, they should cut a check and return our money to us – with interest.

If this ruse is ruled illegal, I would be all for indicting Schwarzenegger and the voting members of the legislature for an actual crime: conspiracy to commit grand theft, fraud and misrepresentation.

What can Schwarzenegger say?

He has failed miserably to provide leadership in the State of California and his people are already talking about a position as a California State Senator in 2010 – and, if the Constitution can be amended, the Presidency. There can be no argument with the basic numbers. Since Schwarzenegger took office, spending has accelerated beyond population growth and inflation – up $41 billion (40%) to $144.8 billion since 2o03. Hardly the record of a fiscal conservative.

And where did this money go?

The people of California continue to see the state’s crumbling infrastructure which is in dire need of repair or replacement. The people see their roads deteriorate in front of them as the freeway becomes a massive parking lot moving in the same general direction of the traffic flow. Of course, who can even see the surrounding area as politically-expedient “sound walls” are given a higher priority than actual roadway repairs?

Part of this money has gone to subsidize the illegal aliens who are now assuming more and more power in the political process. Through an evil confluence of the the unions who see more members, more political power and more dues; the major contractors and developers who see cheaper labor; and the politicians who see a large bloc of voters susceptible to the manipulative techniques which work on the indigent and illiterate – they all watch our healthcare, education, judicial, retirement, social and cultural infrastructure fail.

Part of this money has gone to satisfy the special interests who are trying to simply grow government into a self-sustaining mass that can wield enough political power as to override the wishes of the citizenry. Part of the funds went for personnel costs associated with union contracts. Part of the money went to outside consultants. And the money that was not spent on ineffective programs was probably lost in waste, fraud and corruption.

But the bottom line remains, much of this money need not have been spent and that which was spent lacked adequate oversight and control.

What can YOU do?

It is almost worth the time, effort and money to attempt to re-call the governor before he becomes a bigger embarrassment as a Senator. But considering how helpful he has been to the tax and spend democrats, he might wind up with a job in the Obama Administration.

Tell your elected officials that the democratic party is through in California if they attempt to illegally maneuver their way through this morass of their own making.

It’s time that we bring back a two-party system in California as the democrat party has proven to be totally incompetent in managing the people’ business and finances.

-- steve

Quote of the day: “Few people are capable of expressing with equanimity opinions which differ from the prejudices of their social environment. Most people are even incapable of forming such opinions.” -- Albert Einstein

A reminder from OneCitizenSpeaking.com: a large improvement can result from a small change…

The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane. -- Marcus Aurelius

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"The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane." -- Marcus Aurelius